At the Zhuhai Air Show on November 12, Iranian Air Force Commander Brigadier General Hamid Vahedi had the opportunity to evaluate China’s J-10CE fighter jet, a modern and powerful addition to China’s military aviation lineup. The visit has drawn significant attention, particularly as tensions rise between Iran and Israel, suggesting a possible shift in Iran’s defense strategy. Vahedi’s inspection of the J-10C, also known as the “Vigorous Dragon,” highlights Iran’s increasing interest in China’s advanced military technology.
The J-10C, an upgraded version of China’s J-10 fighter, is equipped with advanced avionics, radar systems, and weapons capabilities, making it a formidable competitor in the global fighter jet market. With a price tag of around $40 million per unit, the J-10C presents a cost-effective alternative to other Western-made fighters, such as the F-16. For the Iranian Air Force, which is under ongoing restrictions on acquiring Western aircraft, the J-10C could be an appealing choice in terms of both affordability and performance.
General Vahedi’s visit to the Zhuhai Air Show and his firsthand experience with the J-10C came shortly after a meeting with his Chinese counterpart, General Chang Dingqiu. The two commanders discussed potential areas of cooperation, signaling an increasing defense relationship between Iran and China. While no formal commitment has been made by Iran’s leadership to acquire the J-10C, military observers have noted that this fighter jet aligns closely with Iran’s operational needs, especially considering its combat capabilities and the cost-effectiveness compared to Western counterparts.
The possible acquisition of 100 J-10s by Iran, as suggested by Iranian media outlet ‘Iran Observer,’ would amount to an investment of $4 billion. The aircraft’s superior weaponry, flight performance, and overall cost efficiency have led some analysts to suggest that the J-10C could be a game-changer for the Iranian Air Force, enhancing its ability to confront regional threats, particularly amid heightened tensions with Israel.
As military and geopolitical dynamics evolve, the Chinese-made J-10C fighter jet could play a critical role in strengthening Iran’s air force. The growing defense ties between Iran and China underscore the potential for future collaboration, with the J-10C serving as a symbol of China’s expanding influence in global defense markets.